PHOTO COURTESY OF HERMÈS
When it comes to fragrance families, most people are familiar with the four main olfactory groups. But besides amber, floral, fresh and woody, there are also outliers that resist categorisation, like chypre. And right on cue, Hermès’ introduces its very first chypre fragrance, Barénia.
Named after the maison’s heritage namesake leather, the scent evokes a similarly sensual experience that’s uniquely Hermès. But what exactly is a chypre fragrance? Pronounced ‘sheep-ra’, the dry and warm perfume accord almost always builds around a mossy note, complete with a harmony of bergamot, labdanum oakmoss and patchouli.
Full of character, the Barénia juice opens with notes of fruity miracle berry. This leads to a delicate heart of butterfly lily, before leaving a warm trail of oakwood and intense patchouli. The result is a timeless blend that wears like a caress.
Captivating fragrance aside, its stunning circular bottle is a nod to another house classic. Topping the crystal-clear curves is a metal plate bearing four contoured studs that echo the iconic Collier de Chien bracelets.
The Barénia EDP is available in two sizes, 60 ML (SGD229) and 100 ML (SGD311). You can also get a 125 ML refill for SGD311. To extend the olfactory experience, there’s a 15 ML Travel Spray (SGD54) format, as well as a 125-gram Perfumed Soap (SGD65) option.
The Barénia is available from 2 September at Hermès Singapore boutiques at Liat Towers, Marina Bay Sands and Takashimaya. Or head to the Hermès Parfum & Beauté counters within Takashimaya Shopping Centre and TANGS at Tang Plaza, as well as online via their e-store.
